Trump Tariffs Spark Global Trade Turmoil as New Duties Hit Over 90 Countries

Trump’s latest round of tariffs just went live. Over 90 countries are now facing new duties on exports to the US. The average effective tariff rate is now above 17%, which is a massive jump. For context, that’s higher than anything seen in nearly a century.

A Closer Look at Who’s Hit Hardest

These new tariffs came into effect at midnight in Washington. President Trump even posted about it right as the clock hit twelve, claiming “billions of dollars” were now flowing into the US. But behind the social media post, the fallout is already starting. Supply chains began reacting almost immediately. Importers are being hit with extra costs ranging anywhere from 10% to 50%. This covers your furniture, electronics, food, industrial goods, and more.

Some countries are getting hit much harder than others. India and Brazil now top the list, each facing a 50% tariff. India has already rolled out the first 25%, and the second half is scheduled for later this month. China is sitting in the 30% tier, while most EU countries, Japan, and South Korea are facing 15%. The UK and Australia, which are closer US allies, have got off with a 10% rate.

International Criticism and Domestic Legal Challenges

At the same time, Indian officials asked why the US is still trading with Russia while telling others not to. When asked about it, Trump said he didn’t know. The comment has raised concerns, especially in countries trying to manage their relationships with both Russia and the US.

There are also legal questions. Back during Trump’s first term, courts struck down some tariff actions when he tried to use emergency powers too broadly. There’s a high possibility that courts could step in again, and Trump seems to be bracing for it. He’s already warning that “radical left courts” could be the only thing standing in the way of what he calls America’s economic comeback.

America First, Global Tensions Next

These tariffs are hitting nearly every major economy. This could force companies everywhere to rethink their supply chain strategies. Except for a few products, the new costs are unavoidable in most industries. Even semiconductors weren’t spared. Trump plans a 100% tariff on computer chips, unless companies build in the U.S, while giving US-based manufacturers a break. That puts massive pressure on Asian chipmakers, who are already dealing with other economic headwinds.

Experts are warning about what comes next. Yale’s Budget Lab estimated that American families could see up to $2,400 a year in added expenses, especially for essentials like clothing. And while Trump’s team is claiming the US will bring in billions from these tariffs, there’s growing concern among economists about the risk of stagflation.

For decades, the focus was on multilateral agreements and lowering barriers between countries. Now, it’s more about bilateral pressure and using trade as a tool for national security goals. Trump’s using tariffs not just for economics, but as leverage in bigger geopolitical conflicts.

Even the European Union had to negotiate hard just to keep their rate capped at 15%. Others didn’t have that option. And while countries like China are still trying to work things out through talks, the tone is pretty clear: the US is moving away from cooperative trade deals and toward a more transactional, America-first model.